The Dale Winfield Motorcycle Collection, 1950 Vincent 998cc Series-C Rapide

• Professionally restored by marque specialists Maughan & Sons in the 1980s
• Present ownership since 1993
• Requires recommissioning

Ever since the Series A's arrival in 1937, the Vincent v-twin has been synonymous with design innovation, engineering excellence and superlative high performance. Philip Vincent's machines bristled with innovative features, the brake pedal, footrests, seat height and gear-change lever all being adjustable, while the finish was to a very high standard commensurate with the cost of the machine, which was virtually double that of any of its contemporaries. But above all else it was the Vincent's stupendous performance that captivated motorcyclists, whether they could afford one or not. With a top speed approaching 120mph, and bettering it in the Black Shadow's case, the Vincent v-twin was the fastest road vehicle of its day.

First registered in May 1950, this Series-C Rapide caries a 'Maughan & Sons Complete Renovation' plaque (referring to the recognised marque specialists) and currently displays a total of 824 miles on the odometer, which is presumed to be the distance covered since the rebuild's completion circa 1985. There are several pages of Maughan's paperwork on file detailing the restoration.

Accompanying documentation includes an V5C, RF.60 continuation logbook issued in January 1967 and listing five private owners; a photocopied V5 in the previous owner's name; a photocopied V5 in the name of our late vendor, who acquired the Vincent in 1993. The machine had belonged to the previous owner since 1988. Notable features include a Smiths 5" speedometer and tachometer; modern control levers and crash bars; Amal Mk2 Concentric carburettors; and numerous stainless steel fastenings.

The Vincent Owners Club advise us that engine 'F10AB/1/2837' and upper frame 'RC4737' are from a Series-C Rapide despatched from the factory in May 1950 to Kings in Oxford. It appears to have been standard apart from a 3.50x19" front wheel/tyre rather than the usual 20". As far as the VOC knows, 'PFC 555' is the original registration.

Following a period of inactivity, this motorcycle will require recommissioning or possibly more extensive restoration before returning to the road and thus is sold strictly as viewed. Key not required.